China Smuggling Western Components to Russia

China is smuggling Western drone components to Russia to help the Russians keep their war machine humming, a report from Estonia’s foreign intelligence said Wednesday.

Why it matters: Russia’s ability to buy Western parts via China diminishes America’s leverage over Russia.

The war against Ukraine continues to draw Moscow and Beijing closer together. The strengthened alliance between two major American enemies is an ominous sign for the West.

Details: Around 80 percent of Russia’s Western drone components come from China, according to the report. This was previously thought to be 60 percent.

China gives these parts to Russia via “covert transfers … through private companies,” the report noted. Russia is unable to produce these parts on its own.

Chinese interests here lie in preventing Russia from losing the war in Ukraine as such an outcome would represent a victory for the United States ….
—Kaupo Rosin, director general of Estonian Foreign Intelligence Service

Prophesied alliance: The Bible prophesies that Russia and China will soon be fully allied and lead a massive Asian bloc, forming the largest military force in history. Their strengthening ties are setting the stage for this prophetic fulfillment.

Learn more: Read our Trends article “Why the Trumpet Watches Russia Allying With China.”